Trial of Genentech Drug Shows
Promise in Treating Asthma

Genentech Inc. said an experimental drug aimed at the underlying causes of asthma showed "preliminary positive results" in a large trial and that it will seek permission to market the drug shortly.

The drug, a mononclonal antibody known as anti-IgE, could bring relief to patients with moderate to severe forms of asthma without the side effects of current treatments, such as steroids and muscle relaxants.